The Suffolk Police Department is warning citizens to look out for credit card skimmers after one was found at a local gas station.

According to a city press release, the illegal device that is used to steal credit card information was found on a diesel fuel pump at the 7-Eleven in the 1900 block of Holland Road. A contractor that performs maintenance on the pumps found the device, and police were contacted on Dec. 1.

Based on the company’s service schedule, the device could have been installed anytime between Nov. 2 and Dec. 1, according to the city press release.

Citizens can help keep their finances safe by following some of these tips, the press release stated:

• Look for the special seal placed over the front panel of the gas pump. Thieves need to lift that seal to get a skimmer inside the pump. If the seal is lifted, it will read “void.” If you spot a voided label, tell the manager and don’t use the pump.
• Look for external credit-card readers that look different from the ones at surrounding pumps.
• Use your debit card as a credit card, so you don’t need to enter your PIN.
• If you can’t use your debit card as a credit card, shield your PIN entry with your hand. Some thieves use cameras to steal personal identification numbers.
• Use pumps located closer to the gas station storefront, where thieves might be less likely to install a skimmer device.
• If you find your credit card information has been compromised, call the police department.